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Endodontics is the dental specialty that treats the internal structure of the tooth and its root canals. When the pulp tissue inside the tooth becomes damaged or infected, endodontic treatment (root canal therapy) is performed to preserve the tooth’s health. In this article you will find everything you need to know about what endodontics is, why it is necessary, and the treatment process.
Endodontics is the branch of dentistry that treats the pulp tissue and root canals inside the tooth. The pulp is the soft tissue in the center of the tooth containing nerves and blood vessels. When the pulp becomes infected or damaged, endodontic treatment removes the pulp, cleans and disinfects the interior of the tooth, and fills it to prevent the spread of infection and tooth loss.
When the pulp tissue is infected or damaged, it can cause a variety of signs and problems:
Severe tooth pain: Pain triggered by heat, cold or chewing.
Tooth sensitivity: Excessive sensitivity to hot or cold stimuli.
Swelling and abscesses: Gum swelling, abscess formation or localized facial swelling.
Tooth discoloration: Darkening or change in the colour of the affected tooth.
Difficulty chewing: Discomfort or pain during chewing.
If pulp infection is not treated, it can lead to tooth loss and infection of surrounding tissues. Endodontic treatment is necessary to prevent such complications.
Endodontic therapy typically involves several steps and may require one or two dental visits:
Examination & Diagnosis: The dentist examines the tooth and uses imaging (e.g., radiographs) to assess the pulp’s condition, determine the extent of infection and plan treatment.
Anesthesia: Local anaesthesia is administered so you do not feel pain during the procedure.
Pulp Removal & Cleaning: A small access opening is made in the tooth crown and the infected pulp is carefully removed. Root canals are cleaned and disinfected.
Canal Filling: The cleaned root canals are filled with a biocompatible filling material to prevent reinfection and strengthen the tooth structure.
Temporary or Permanent Restoration: A temporary or permanent filling is placed in the crown. In some cases, a crown may be required to protect and restore the tooth.
After endodontic therapy, it is important to take measures to maintain the tooth’s health:
Brush your teeth regularly and use dental floss.
Follow a balanced diet and avoid excessive sugary foods.
Attend regular dental check-ups to monitor and maintain the treated tooth.
Tooth preservation: Removing infected pulp allows the tooth to be saved instead of extracted.
Pain relief: Eliminates pain and sensitivity caused by pulp infection.
Restored function: The treated tooth can resume normal chewing and speaking functions.
Infection prevention: Cleaning the infected tissue prevents spread of infection and more serious health problems.
Endodontic treatment prevents tooth loss by addressing infections and damage within the tooth’s interior and helps preserve overall oral health. Timely treatment of infected or damaged teeth is important to avoid more serious complications.
If you experience tooth pain, sensitivity, or signs of infection, contact your dentist to learn about endodontic treatment options.